Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe combines the vibrant flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with the comfort of pasta. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal, this dish stands out with its creamy dressing, fresh herbs, and the delightful crunch of roasted corn. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta Salad
• For the Dressing
• How to Make Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Corn
• Step 3: Make the Dressing
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• Step 5: Serve Fresh
• How to Serve Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)
• As a Main Dish
• As a Side Dish
• At Picnics and Potlucks
• With Toppings
• In Meal Prep
• How to Perfect Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)
• Best Side Dishes for Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)
• Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of cheese in this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?
• How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
• Can I make this salad vegan?
• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
• Can I add more vegetables to my salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of roasted corn, cotija cheese, and spices brings the taste of street corn right to your kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or a main dish; it works well for BBQs, family dinners, or meal prep.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and yogurt-based dressing, it’s a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for gatherings—just add fresh ingredients before serving!

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Elote Pasta Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta efficiently while ensuring even heat distribution.
• Colander: Perfect for draining pasta without losing any precious pieces.
• Baking sheet: Useful for roasting corn evenly while enhancing its flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients without spillage.
• Whisk: Great for blending the dressing smoothly and evenly.

Ingredients

This Elote Pasta Salad has all the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn with roasted corn, tender pasta, cotija cheese, fresh herbs, and a creamy dressing. It might just be your new favorite pasta salad recipe!

For the Pasta Salad

• 8 oz pasta, dry
• 4 cups whole corn kernels (454g), or 16 oz bag of frozen corn
• ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (75g), or queso fresco, feta, or parmesan cheese
• ½ a red onion, diced (215g)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (8g), or fresh parsley
• 1 jalapeno pepper, pulp and seeds removed, chopped

For the Dressing

• Olive oil mayonnaise
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (226g)
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise (30g)
• 1 lime, zest and juice (about 2 Tbsp lime juice)
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

How to Make Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to the package directions. For al dente texture, boil it 1-2 minutes less than recommended.
2. Once done cooking, drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil. Allow it to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. If using fresh corn, cook using your preferred method until kernels are tender.
2. Coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before wrapping in foil. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes.
3. If using frozen corn, heat in a skillet on medium-high until thawed and warm—about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Combine plain Greek yogurt with olive oil mayonnaise.
2. Add lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix well using a whisk or spoon until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with roasted corn kernels.
2. Add chopped cilantro, diced red onion, crumbled cotija cheese, and jalapeno.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Hint: If preparing in advance for later use, wait to add cotija cheese and cilantro until just before serving for optimal freshness!

How to Serve Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

This Elote Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that can be served in various ways. Its rich flavors and textures make it perfect for any occasion, whether casual or festive.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad can stand alone as a hearty main course. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled meats or fish. Its creamy dressing complements the smoky flavors of barbecued dishes beautifully.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• Bring this Elote Pasta Salad to your next gathering. It travels well and is sure to impress guests with its unique taste and colorful presentation.

With Toppings

• Consider adding extra toppings like avocado slices or additional cotija cheese. These additions enhance both flavor and presentation.

In Meal Prep

• Use this salad for meal prep throughout the week. It stays fresh in the fridge for several days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches.

How to Perfect Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

To create the best Elote Pasta Salad, follow these handy tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs will elevate the dish. If possible, opt for seasonal produce to enhance flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Aim for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the jalapeno amount based on your spice preference. You can also omit it entirely for a milder version.
• Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are combined thoroughly with the dressing. This guarantees every bite is full of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

Pairing side dishes with this Elote Pasta Salad will create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors nicely.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with spices are an excellent protein addition that pairs perfectly with this pasta salad.
2. Corn on the Cob: Keep the theme going with classic Mexican street corn, simply grilled and brushed with lime and chili powder.
3. Black Bean Tacos: Flavor-packed black bean tacos provide a hearty contrast and add more plant-based goodness to your meal.
4. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole offer a crunchy side that enhances the overall experience.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the pasta salad.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime brightens up the plate and complements the Mexican-inspired flavors of your main dish.
7. Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa made from mango or pineapple adds sweetness and acidity that contrasts beautifully with savory elements.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide another satisfying option that aligns well with both textures and flavors in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Elote Pasta Salad, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Aim for al dente by cooking according to package instructions but reducing the time by 1-2 minutes.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Skipping fresh herbs or using old produce can diminish flavor. Always use fresh cilantro and quality corn for the best taste in your salad.
• Not Cooling Pasta Properly: Adding hot pasta to other ingredients can wilt them. After draining, toss the pasta with olive oil and let it cool before mixing.
• Skipping the Dressing: A common mistake is forgetting to mix the dressing thoroughly. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to evenly distribute flavors.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you make this salad ahead of time, don’t add cotija cheese until serving. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to a month.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring in between. It usually takes about 2-3 minutes total on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Elote Pasta Salad Recipe.

Can I use different types of cheese in this Elote Pasta Salad Recipe (Mexican Street Corn)?

Absolutely! You can substitute cotija cheese with queso fresco, feta, or even parmesan for a different flavor profile.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

The Elote Pasta Salad can last up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise along with nutritional yeast instead of cotija cheese for a vegan version.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any short pasta works well, such as rotini or penne. Choose one that holds onto the dressing nicely.

Can I add more vegetables to my salad?

Definitely! Feel free to include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Elote Pasta Salad Recipe combines delicious flavors reminiscent of Mexican street corn while being easy to prepare. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust spice levels. Try adding grilled chicken or swapping out herbs based on what you have on hand—this recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!

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